Elder Abuse Prevention Tip: Have Legal Documents Ready

There are so many different types of elder abuse that it is hard to think ahead in order to prevent all of them. The elderly and disabled are vulnerable and need their loved ones to look out for them. As sad as it is, there are many people out there who want to take advantage of the elderly, financially, physically, and mentally. It is our goal to give advice and share stories of abuse and neglect in order to shed light on this growing problem in our country. We want your loved ones to live a life of dignity in a time when the elderly are often disregarded and abused.

List of Essential Legal Documents for Elderly

One of the most important tips that we can give to prevent your loved one from falling victim to elder abuse is to have all of the appropriate documents ready as the person gets older. It is important to have these documents before you need them so you are not surprised and unprepared by how fast their health or mental state worsens.

The basic legal documents that we suggest you have include:

Power of Attorney: This document is very important; it names a person to make decisions for the individual when they are no longer able to do so for themselves. Financial and health care power of attorney are the most important because they allow the designated person to handle the individual’s money and make health care decisions.

Living Will: This document will specify the individual’s preferences towards the end of their life. This will include extraordinary measures to prolong their life if something were to happen such as a coma where they cannot speak for themselves.

HIPAA Authorization: These authorizations will allow the designated person to speak to doctors and other health care professionals in times when the individual cannot speak for himself or herself.

Elder Abuse Lawyers in New Jersey and Philadelphia

The elderly are a vulnerable population that needs our help and understanding. It is shameful to essentially throw them away when they become difficult to care for. Our elderly loved ones deserve to live and die with the same dignity that we feel we are entitled to. Don’t let elder abuse continue at the same alarming rate at which it occurs now.

If your loved one is currently a resident of a nursing home or care facility and you are worried that the care they are receiving is negligent, abusive, or inadequate, contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation. You may also call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.